Posts by Clay Martin
Dram Shop Liability and Alabama’s Social Host Laws
Whether you’re a lifelong Alabamian or a recent addition to our state, you may find yourself asking questions about the concept of “dram shop liability.” According to the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), drug and alcohol impairment played a role in over 5,000 traffic crashes in 2022, and those accidents resulted in 198 fatalities. Alabama’s…
Read MoreCan You Sue a Friend’s House for Dram Shop Liability in Alabama?
Here in Alabama, social drinking often plays a role in celebrations and gatherings across every season. While socializing and partying can provide ample opportunities for connecting and building community, social hosts have certain legal responsibilities when it comes to ensuring their guests celebrate safely. In 2022, there were over 5,000 drug- and alcohol-related traffic accidents…
Read MoreHow Seatbelt Laws Impact Car Accident Cases
All 50 states plus the District of Columbia have enacted seatbelt laws. These laws impact car accident claims in a variety of ways, especially when they interact with other laws such as the state’s comparative fault law. Alabama’s seatbelt law matters, but it is less relevant than seatbelt laws in most other states. An Alabama…
Read MoreThe Importance of Expert Testimony for 18-Wheeler Accidents in Alabama
Truck crashes involving 18-wheelers are like something out of a nightmare. And for thousands of people in Alabama, this isn’t just some worst-case scenario. Over 10,000 heavy truck crashes in 2022 alone left families gathering the wreckage. Hospital stays, countless medical bills, and dealing with insurance companies. The stress, the uncertainty. That one question that…
Read MoreJackknife Truck Accidents: What You Need to Know
Jackknife truck accidents, where the trailer and cab fold in, are terrifying and, unfortunately, far too common on highways. These accidents can cause massive pileups, life-threatening injuries, and even fatalities. If you’ve never thought about what you’d do in a situation like this, now’s the time to start. And if this has already happened to…
Read MoreCan You Get Reimbursed for Pain and Suffering After a Car Accident in Alabama?
A car accident is reported every three minutes in Alabama. An injury occurs in a car accident every 13 minutes. In 2023, there were almost 38,000 car accident-related injuries in the state. While those are startling statistics, the reality is that they represent real people dealing with real pain and real suffering. Of course, when…
Read MoreHow Alabama’s “Sudden Emergency Doctrine” Affects Motorcycle Accident Liability
Riding a motorcycle comes with more than a few risks. For example, other drivers are often less than observant, and storms and fog make it dangerous to ride. Motorcyclists are usually pretty aware of these risks, but the last thing you expect is for another driver to claim they “had no choice” but to hit…
Read MoreHow Construction Zones Contribute to Increased Motorcycle Accident Risks
While road construction is key to improving infrastructure, loose gravel, uneven roads, and inadequate signs can result in crashes – including motorcycle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are more than 26 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants in a passenger vehicle, as well as five…
Read MoreNegligent Security for Landowners in Alabama
Picture this: A customer leaves a shopping center after picking up some new clothes and a couple of much-needed essentials. As they enter the parking lot, they notice how dark everything is – even the car outlines are partly blending into the night. They can’t see security guards anywhere and start to feel worried, as…
Read MoreWhat Is a Catastrophic Injury?
After experiencing any type of accident, it is important to check yourself for signs of injuries, seek immediate medical attention, and determine the severity of your injuries. One of the reasons why this is recommended is because your attorney will likely need to know whether you have a catastrophic injury. It is crucial to know…
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